Where It Comes From
Made as an intermediate for herbicides/antiseptics; released from chemical plants, hazardous waste sites, or burning chlorinated materials [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing air or dust near facilities or dumps, using contaminated well water, skin contact with polluted soil/sediment, or on the job in chemical manufacturing or waste handling [1][2].
Why It Matters
Can irritate eyes/skin; higher or long-term exposure may harm liver and kidneys. Some chlorophenols have been linked to cancer in studies, but human evidence is limited for 2,4,5‑TCP [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Workers making/using chlorophenols; people near hazardous waste or old herbicide plants; private well users nearby; infants, children, and those with liver/kidney disease [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Test private wells if you live near industrial or waste areas; use certified activated-carbon or reverse osmosis filters; avoid contact with contaminated soil/sediment; follow workplace protections; check local fish advisories [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs: Chlorophenols (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry).
- [2]WHO/IPCS. Environmental Health Criteria 93: Chlorophenols other than Pentachlorophenol.